As students prepare to return to the classroom today, the NSW Government is providing comprehensive support for schools affected by the antisemitic terror attack at Bondi Beach.
The NSW Government is committed to ensuring every student and teacher feels safe and supported as the school year begins, with resources available across public and non-government schools to ensure a unified approach to community recovery.
In the lead-up to the new school year, principals have been working closely with their staff to identify specific needs and ensure tailored support plans are in place before students arrive.
Dedicated mental health and wellbeing resources have been deployed to schools across the eastern suburbs and Bondi, including increased access to school counsellors and specialist psychologists.
To ensure the highest level of care, counselling staff have undergone intensive training in psychological first aid and trauma response.
This training was delivered by the highly respected clinical psychologist Dr Rob Gordon OAM, ensuring staff have the necessary tools to support students through the ongoing recovery process.
Additional counselling support will be available for any NSW school requiring assistance during the first weeks of the term.
Strengthened security measures are also in place at schools and early learning centres with large Jewish student populations.
Alongside these measures, the NSW Government is working with the Commonwealth's Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism to implement a training program for teachers and school leaders to prevent and counter antisemitism.
Any parents and carers who have queries about support as their child returns to school are encouraged to discuss these with their school principal.
The NSW Government is working to ensure that the return to school is a safe and supportive experience for all students and teachers in the eastern suburbs and across the broader Jewish community.
This ongoing support is part of a broader commitment from the NSW and Commonwealth Governments, with approximately $60 million allocated to date for resilience and recovery initiatives for those affected by the attack.
Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:
"Many of our schools and early learning centres across Bondi and the eastern suburbs have been deeply affected by the antisemitic terrorist attack so we're making sure that everyone affected has the support they need.
"Our message to everyone affected by this horrific attack is clear - we're with you now and for the long haul."
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said:
"Students and staff at all schools have the right to feel safe and secure as they return for the first day of term.
"Our schools have a range of support services available, as our community continues to recover and students return to their school routines.
"I encourage anyone who is finding the return to the classroom difficult to reach out for support."
